The American bald eagle was ‘punched in the face’ during a League Cup clash between Palace and Charlton in 2015

Addicks fan Daniel Boylett, 36, of Eltham, south east London, has denied attempted criminal damage in the alleged attack.

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Boylett appeared at Croydon Crown Court alongside Colin Kitto, 49, of Eltham, Andy McConville, 48, of Rochester, Kent, Billy Cowcher, 32, of Greenwich, south east London and Sam Donegan, 25, of Welling, south east London, who have been charged with the football violence.

Kayla’s handler Chris Belsey was walking the bird of prey around the Selhurst Park pitch when a punch was thrown from the crowd, the jury heard.

Prosecutor Daniel Higgins said: “As he passed the stand he noticed three or four fans were shouting abuse and one of these three or four lent over the barrier and threw a punch directed at Kayla.

“Mr Belsey is unsure if the punch directed at the eagle had landed.

“He pulled Kayla away slightly to keep her from any further attack and then walked away.”

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